MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- Twice a month, Saint Joseph PACE, a care center for older adults in Mishawaka, IN, becomes a petting zoo as the Potawatomi Zoo brings adorable companions to the center.

On the second Wednesday and third Friday of every month (Dec.10 and Dec.19) at 10:15 a.m., staff from the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend bring in small animals for participants to interact with, such as chinchillas, porcupines, parrots and more.

The zoo staff present fun facts about each animal they bring, answering any questions along the way.

Not only do participants learn more about the animals, but interacting with animals helps reduce stress and promote physical and mental well-being.

This event is open exclusively to Saint Joseph PACE members.